Tortiglioni with chicken

Tortiglioni with Chicken: A Tasty and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm and hearty meal that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones? Tortiglioni with chicken is exactly the recipe you need to turn an ordinary evening into an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe combines the perfect texture of tortiglioni pasta with the rich flavors of chicken, cheese, and spices, creating a dish that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul.

The story behind this recipe is simple: the origins of pasta are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, but each family has developed its own recipes, tailored to the tastes and ingredients available. Tortiglioni, with their spiral shapes, are perfect for holding sauces and flavors, providing a unique gastronomic experience.

Necessary Ingredients:

- 500 g tortiglioni pasta
- 150 g cooked chicken (boiled or baked)
- 150 g buffalo cheese (or ricotta cheese as an alternative)
- 150 g cheese (preferably aged cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 1 egg
- 150 ml milk
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon butter (for a richer taste)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the chicken: If you don't have cooked chicken, you can boil the chicken breast in a pot of water with salt for 15 minutes. Once done, remove it from the water and let it cool. Then, chop it into small pieces. This step is essential as the chicken will contribute to the overall consistency and flavor of the dish.

2. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, and when the water is boiling, add the tortiglioni pasta. Cook according to the instructions on the package, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, beat the egg with the milk until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Add the buffalo cheese (or ricotta), crushed garlic, basil, and oregano. Mix well, then add the chopped chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will become the perfect link between the pasta and the meat.

4. Combining the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the chicken and cheese mixture. Make sure all ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Preparing for the oven: Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add extra flavor. Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the dish, leveling it evenly. On top, sprinkle the grated cheese to achieve a delicious crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the dish for 30 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden and bubbles. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply irresistible!

7. Serving: Finally, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is delicious both hot and at room temperature, making it ideal for family meals or for taking on the go.

Practical Tips:

1. Ingredient variations: You can add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to make the recipe even more nutritious. These can be sautéed before being added to the pasta mixture to retain their texture.

2. Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of tortiglioni with chicken contains approximately 450-500 calories. It is a good source of protein due to the chicken and cheese, as well as carbohydrates from the pasta. Adding vegetables will enrich the dish with fiber and essential vitamins.

3. Serving combinations: Tortiglioni with chicken can be served alongside a fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade is perfect to complete the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients while still maintaining the delicious taste of the dish.
- Is this a kid-friendly recipe? Yes, this is a kid-friendly recipe, and cheese and pasta are usually very well received by little ones.
- How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the sauce mixture for an extra spicy flavor.

A personal note: This recipe has become a favorite in my family, especially on weekends when we want to treat ourselves to something special. Even the pickiest family members can't resist this delicious combination!

Turn every meal into a celebration with tortiglioni with chicken! It is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!